Alley delays opening of ‘Death of a Salesman”

The Alley Theatre has canceled early performances of its production of Arthur Miller’s “Death of a Salesman,” due to lead actor James Black’s unspecified illness.

Performances of the show are canceled through Friday, Oct. 5. The play was to have opened on Wednesday, Oct. 3. A new opening date has not been released.

”I must put my health above all, follow the medical guidance of my doctor, and step away from this role and this great production,” Black said in a statement. “I leave with a heavy heart and apologize for disappointing loyal Alley subscribers and current ticket holders.”

Artistic director Gregory Boyd announced that Glenn Fleshler will take on the role of Willy Loman. He served as understudy for the part in the recent Broadway production. His credits also include Captain Brice, RN, in Tom Stoppard’s “Arcadia” and he appeared in Shakespeare’s “The Merchant of Venice” on Broadway. This role will mark his Alley debut.

Black is expected to make a full recovery in time to direct the Alley’s production of “A Christmas Carol,” Alley director of communications Rodi Franco said Saturday.

The theater is contacting ticket holders to reschedule for a performance later in the run. The new schedule will be released soon, Franco said.

To exchange tickets, Alley patrons should call box office at 713-220-5700 or email boxoffice@alleytheatre.org. The theatre is located at 615 Texas Ave.